This reciprocates China’s agreement to extend its visa exemption facility for Malaysian tourists until the end of next year, read the statement released after a meeting between Chinese premier Li Qiang and Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim.

“Both leaders welcome the keen interest to continue consultations and discussions on mutual visa exemption to facilitate the entry of the citizens of Malaysia and the People’s Republic of China,” the statement read.

Today is the last day of Li’s official three-day visit, which coincides with the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Malaysia and China.

At his meeting with Anwar, they discussed bilateral matters and exchanged views on regional and global issues of mutual interest.

Both leaders witnessed the signing of several memorandums of understanding and agreements in various areas of cooperation, including digital economy, higher education, science and technology and the export of agricultural commodities to China.

On May 31, Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said China had agreed to extend the visa exemption for Malaysian tourists from 15 to 30 days, during his first official visit to China since becoming deputy prime minister.